There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bubbling, cheesy dish straight from the oven, and this Spinach and Cheese Casserole is exactly that kind of magic in a pan. With rich ricotta, savory sautéed onions, and a blend of vibrant cheeses, this casserole is everything you want when you crave something cozy, flavorful, and nourishing. Whether you serve it as a main course or a hearty side, its golden top and creamy center will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Best of all, it’s vegetarian, naturally gluten-free, and exceptionally easy to prepare—a true crowd-pleaser perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
All it takes is a handful of kitchen staples and a couple of fresh basics to create this vibrant, irresistible casserole. Each ingredient truly shines—enhancing taste, texture, and that signature creaminess you’ll crave bite after bite.
- Olive oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps the onions and garlic bloom with flavor as they sauté.
- Onion (finely chopped): Brings gentle sweetness, depth, and a pop of tenderness to every forkful.
- Garlic (minced): A generous hit of garlicky goodness for savory, aromatic notes that run all through the casserole.
- Frozen chopped spinach (thawed and well-drained): The green heart of the dish—be sure to squeeze out all extra moisture for the best texture!
- Eggs: Serve as the casserole’s binding heroes, giving it structure and that gentle, custardy bite.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and soft, delicate flavor.
- Sour cream: Contributes a subtle tang and ultra-silky texture to the finished casserole.
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): Melts into dreamy, gooey pockets that pull and stretch like a proper cheesy bake.
- Parmesan cheese (grated): Delivers a salty, nutty bite with every mouthful and helps brown the top beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg: This tiny pinch adds warm, aromatic complexity that complements spinach in every classic way.
- Salt: Highlights all the other flavors and keeps everything popping.
- Black pepper: Brings subtle heat to round out the savoriness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for those who like things with a hint of gentle heat.
How to Make Spinach and Cheese Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, ensuring it’s hot and ready for the casserole. Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish so nothing sticks, and that golden top lifts out perfectly.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add your chopped onion and let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes—think gentle sizzle, not deep browning. Toss in the garlic for one minute more, just until fragrant. This step brings layers of flavor that will infuse the whole casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until combined, then add ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This luscious blend will become the heart of your Spinach and Cheese Casserole, providing all the creaminess and savor you need.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Pour the warm sautéed onions and garlic into the cheese mixture, then add that well-drained spinach—don’t be shy about giving it a good squeeze! Gently fold until everything is evenly combined, making sure the spinach and cheeses are fully mingled.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center sets and the top takes on a beautifully golden hue.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into neat squares. This short rest helps all those cheesy, custardy layers settle perfectly, making serving a breeze.
How to Serve Spinach and Cheese Casserole
Garnishes
A final flourish can take this Spinach and Cheese Casserole from simple to stunning! Try finishing with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, a dusting of fresh cracked pepper, or a scatter of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Each bite feels just a little more special with a fresh pop of color or a bit more umami on top.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlicky roasted potatoes, or even a juicy tomato salad for a burst of brightness. For a heartier meal, surround it with warm, crusty bread—perfect for swiping up every last morsel!
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual squares of Spinach and Cheese Casserole on elegant plates for a special brunch, or cut them into bite-sized cubes and arrange them on a serving board with toothpicks for party appetizers. It also shines as a savory brunch centerpiece or tucked inside a picnic basket for outdoor dining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra casserole? Simply let it cool to room temperature, then cover tightly and refrigerate. It will keep happily for up to four days, making for the most wonderful lunch or dinner the next day (sometimes it’s even better after the flavors meld!).
Freezing
This recipe is freezer-friendly—just let the casserole cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole pan in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to reheat.
Reheating
To bring your Spinach and Cheese Casserole back to life, pop slices into a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or microwave single servings until warmed through. The casserole will regain its gooey cheese and tender custardy texture in no time!
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in this casserole?
Absolutely! You’ll want to use about 1.5 pounds of fresh spinach, steam or sauté it, then squeeze out every bit of moisture before adding it to the mix. This ensures your casserole stays creamy, not watery.
What’s the best way to drain spinach for this recipe?
Place thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel, wrap it up, and twist firmly over the sink. Don’t be afraid to really squeeze it out—excess water can make your casserole soggy, and a drier spinach gives the best creamy result.
Can I make Spinach and Cheese Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—no extra steps required.
Is this Spinach and Cheese Casserole gluten-free?
It is! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any add-ins or cheese brands if gluten is a concern for you or your guests.
How can I add more protein or make it heartier?
If you’d like an extra boost, try stirring in cooked, crumbled sausage, diced ham, or even some sautéed mushrooms before baking. But rest assured, it’s filling and delicious as written!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort, color, and tons of cheesy goodness to your table, Spinach and Cheese Casserole is the way to go. It’s so satisfying and easy to make, you just might find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Give it a try—and don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love a good, cozy bite!
Print
Spinach and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spinach and Cheese Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with the earthy goodness of spinach. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this vegetarian and gluten-free casserole is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 (10 oz) packages frozen chopped spinach (thawed and well-drained)
Cheese Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk eggs, then add ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in sautéed onions, garlic, and drained spinach.
- Bake: Transfer mixture to baking dish, bake for 35–40 minutes until set and golden. Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Casserole reheats well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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